Duration 6 Weeks
In this post-Easter season, we will turn to Paul’s two letters to Timothy and read about how to behave and believe as Christian living together in the community of the church. Paul’s advice to Timothy is as relevant today as it was in this early church, as together we discover how to be Easter People together.
1 Timothy 1:1–7, 12–17 (NIV); Matthew 7:15–20 (NIV)
One of the struggles of any church is to remain true to the apostolic teachings. There will always be those introducing new ideas, perverting old ones and twisting the truth to meet the needs of “itchy ears.” For the church to remain true, it must always be on guard to false teachings. But how?
1 Timothy 2:1–15 (NRSVUE); Luke 24:1–12 (NRSVUE)
The basic rule in interpreting the Bible is to understand it first in its historical and cultural context and then apply the timeless truths to today. This is especially true concerning Paul’s teaching on the role of women, and what is cultural and what is true even for today. You might be surprised!
1 Timothy 6:3–10, 17–19 (NIV); Matthew 6:19–21 (NIV)
The Bible says more about money and possession than it does about grace and faith. Why? Because if anything can become an idol and draw our attention away from God, it is money. Money, per se, is not the issue. It is, of course, the love of money that can blind our eyes and consume our hearts, leaving little room for God.
2 Timothy 3:10–17 (NIV); Matthew 5:17–20 (NIV)
The foundation of the Church is not Jesus Christ. Jesus is the cornerstone. The foundation of the Church are the scriptures, the Word of God that is for teaching, reproof, correction and the building up of the Body of Christ. How do we understand the authority of Scripture?
2 Timothy 1:3–7 (NIV); John 2:1–11 (NRSVUE)
It is all about priorities, keeping the most important things the most important things. We live in a world filled with distraction, but here Paul instructs Timothy not to lose sight of the priority of keeping faith at the center of one’s life.
2 Timothy 4:1–8 (NIV); John 15:1–8 (NIV)
In the end, there are only two kinds of people: those who die in faith and those who don’t. Wealth, power, influence, experiences and education will mean nothing. As Paul considers his life nearing the end, he does not put his confidence on his resume or achievements or status. It is all about finishing strong… in faith.